Two new associate directors among six senior promotions at WHN Solicitors

North West law firm Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall (WHN) Solicitors has made six senior promotions across its team including the appointment of two associate directors.

Paul Matthews, head of WHN’s corporate and commercial team and Julie Sutherland, who leads WHN’s marketing and business development activities, have both been promoted to associate director.

Eleanor Longworth, who was recently recognised in the prestigious national Legal 500 guide as a rising star in the property litigation sector, has been promoted to senior associate. Eleanor supports WHN’s commercial property clients and as part of her role oversees the firm’s long leasehold dispute resolution team.

Commercial property transaction specialist Katie Hall as well as wills, trusts and probate experts Catherine Hamilton and Holly Simpson have all been promoted to associate.

In addition to Eleanor’s recognition, Katie was personally recommended in the recent Legal 500 guide as part of WHN’s ‘professional’ and ‘knowledgeable’ commercial property team. Paul was recognised for his work in mergers and acquisitions and supporting SME businesses in both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners guides this year.

Michael Shroot, CEO, WHN Solicitors said: “WHN is deeply embedded in the communities we operate and as a firm we are committed to giving a high-quality personal service to every client.

“A key part of this is providing opportunities for our staff members to grow and develop within the firm so they can forge meaningful long-term client relationships. As an example, Catherine and Holly both joined the firm as trainees and have been with WHN for a combined 40 years.

“Our promoted colleagues are each primarily based at one of our office locations, but all work with clients across the region, supporting the firm’s growth throughout the North West.

“They have all received excellent client feedback in recent months, both through this year’s renowned Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners guides but also directly. The promotions are a recognition of their expertise and commitment to client service.”

Paul, Julie and Eleanor are all based at WHN’s Bury office. Katie is based at WHN’s Blackburn office and specialises in commercial property transactions, acting on behalf of individuals and companies, as well as charities and business partnerships. 

Catherine and Holly are both part of WHN’s private client team, supporting clients with the preparation of wills, dealing with probate, lasting powers of attorney and managing Court of Protection deputyship matters. Holly also specialises in residential conveyancing and helps clients who are buying and selling their homes.

Catherine is based at WHN’s Haslingden office while Holly is based in Bury.

WHN Solicitors has nine offices across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, which includes the recent opening of an office in Salford, in response to strong demand for its services in the area. The firm employs around 110 staff and advises businesses, individuals and families across the North on a full range of legal matters.